One of the most commonly used techniques in molecular life sciences, quantitative PCR (qPCR or real-time PCR), is used for applications including gene expression, SNP genotyping, and copy number variation. Yet, knowing how to set up effective assays is not always straight-forward.

This webinar focuses on 5′ nuclease (primer- and probe-based) qPCR assay design and experimental setup. Senior Scientific Applications Specialist, Dr Erik Wendlandt, provides guidelines for using design parameters, such as Tm, GC content, amplicon size, and primer and probe location. He also describes several free, online tools, including the BLAST® program (National Library of Medicine), that can aid in primer/probe design and analysis. General considerations for droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) are also addressed.